Propagation
Sow seed when ripe and maintain a temperature of 18ş to 21ş C. (64ş to 75ş F).

Take cuttings during spring and allow the wounds to dry prior to planting into a very well drained media.

Botanic information
Leaf: The large long-lanceolate re-curved leaves have a thick fleshy texture and reddish toothed margins. There are 20-30 arranged in a terminal rosette and become pending with age. The spent leaves are persistent on the trunk forming a hula-like skirt that protects the trunk from sunburn.

Flower: The tiny tubular flowers are arranged densely in a cylindrical spike and open progressively from the base appearing during winter. It is held high above the foliage on a slender scape that is up to 1 m (3 ft) long.

Fruit: The small loculicidal capsule contains numerous small seeds that are viable but the plant is commonly reproduced vegetatively.

Cultural notes
Outdoor Cultivation
In warm regions with low humidity, cold and frosty nights with hot sunny days cacti and succulents grow well outdoors. The more humid atmosphere will limit the number of successful species. All of these plants require a very well drained soil and ample sunlight to succeed. Once established these plants require minimal maintenance.

Indoor Cultivation
Cacti and succulents grow well in glasshouses or near a sunny window with some ventilation tolerating a marked difference in day and night temperatures.
Cacti have a rest period during mid winter when they can be stored in a cooler area with reduced watering, once every two months. Protect the plants from freezing temperatures or extreme direct hot sunlight behind glass. All plants prefer a period outdoors during summer.

Watering
These plants normally have wet and dry periods. Watering should take place during the growing period of the plant. When new growth appears water well once a week and never water if the soil is already wet or place the pot in a saucer of water. Free drainage is essential for a healthy plant and succulents rot easily in moist humid conditions.

Problems related to watering.
Over watering succulent`s results in leaves that wilt and discolour or stems that rot.
Under-watering results in a sudden loss of leaves or the appearance of brown and dry spots on the leaves. Leaves also fall if the water is too cold.

Pots
Both clay and plastic pots are suitable. The pot should fit the plant comfortably and not be too big as it may remain moist, rotting the plant. Water only when the soil has dried.
Re-pot only when necessary in to a slightly larger pot for older plants. If the plants are very large replenish the surface soil and thoroughly water.